Absorbent Herbs

If your body does not respond well to traditional medical treatment, it is possible that going the all-natural route may be an option for you. One type of treatment that your holistic practitioner may recommend is detoxification. Detoxification occurs when you neutralize or eliminate substances from your body that can harm body tissue. Absorbent herbs are great tools for eliminating harmful toxins that have accumulated in the body.

Properties of Absorbent Herbs

• Absorbent herbs are effective agents for detoxification of the human body. They are plants that possess a sponge-like ability to absorb liquids, dead tissues, toxins and other waste products in the body. Though they are most commonly used to cleanse the colon, they are also used for their anti-bacterial properties and to fight poison.

Mullein

• Mullein's absorptive qualities come into light when mixed with water, as it produces "mucilage," a slimy substance that lines and relaxes the intestine. The effects of the mucilage mullein produces in the intestines is the reason it is very effective against diarrhea and gastrointestinal complications. The flowers and roots of the plant are also often used to make an aromatic tea that combats asthma and skin irritation.

Yarrow

• Yarrow is a small white flower that is also known as the "Old Man's Pepper" and "Nose Bleed." It is a well-known medicinal herb that is effective against colds, abdominal cramps, trauma and bleeding, stomach ulcers, and kidney disorders. The most common way to administer yarrow is through a tea made from its flowers.

Hops

• Also known as European or English Hop, hops is a bitter herb that has a number of medicinal properties. When used externally, its antiseptic properties make it effective against skin infections; such as herpes and eczema. It is also used as a sleep-inducing herb. When ingested, hops can help with indigestion and other stomach ailments.